A horror crash on the N1 between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka has claimed the lives of 21 people.

The collision, involving two minibus vehicles and a station wagon, happened at approximately 11:30 pm on Sunday, 13 September.

Initially, the Western Cape Department of Mobility confirmed 18 fatalities and three serious injuries. This was later revised upwards to 21.

Emergency and traffic teams remained on scene on Monday morning attending to the incident.

As at 08h00 on Monday morning, the N1 was still closed in both directions. Motorists were advised to use the only alternative route, via Prince Albert Road Station, along the R407 towards the N12, and then continuing on the N12 towards Beaufort West – a detour of approximately 200 km.

Motorists were urged to avoid the area where possible, exercise extreme caution, expect significant delays, and follow the instructions of traffic officials and emergency personnel on site.

The horror crash follows another fatal collision on the N1 near Leeu-Gamka on Friday 11 September. A taxi and a bakkie collided head-on leaving three people dead.